Freetown, 3rd March 2026 – President Julius Maada Bio has sworn in Edmond Sylvester Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner of Sierra Leone during a ceremony held today at State House in Freetown.
The appointment was carried out in line with Section 32(6) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone Act no 6 of 1991, which requires the Chief Electoral Commissioner to subscribe to the oath of office before assuming official duties.
“Before assuming the functions of his office, the Chief Electoral Commissioner and the other members of the Electoral Commission shall take and subscribe the oath of office prescribed by law.”
In his acceptance remarks, Alpha described the appointment as both a professional milestone and a “sacred contract with the people of Sierra Leone.” He pledged to uphold the Constitution as his guiding principle, stressing neutrality in the face of political interests.
“I have seen democracy grow throughout my 20 years in the Commission. The road ahead is demanding, but I am energized to work with my team of commissioners and the dedicated staff of the ECSL,” he said, calling for civic participation and public prayers for success.
President Bio, in his statement, emphasized that the appointment was made after due consultation and in line with constitutional powers. He acknowledged the weight of the task ahead, assuring Alpha of his independence and promising to provide the necessary support for him to succeed.
Reflecting on his own democratic journey, President Bio recalled sacrifices made during Sierra Leone’s first democratic elections three decades ago. He highlighted reforms under his leadership, including the abolition of the death penalty, press freedoms, and ongoing dialogue with the opposition. “When I make appointments and hear the opposition shout, that is their role. But we must engage in dialogue, and I have engaged them,” he said.
The President urged the Electoral Commission to conduct credible, free, and fair elections, underscoring the institution’s central role in safeguarding Sierra Leone’s democracy.
